London: The medical board responsible for the treatment of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia at the London Clinic is set to determine the necessity of a liver transplant based on her forthcoming medical test results, according to her personal physician, Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain. Dr Zahid emphasized that Khaleda Zia's medical tests for major complications are underway and are expected to continue over the next few days, during which the doctors will formulate a treatment plan contingent on her fitness and the test outcomes.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the medical board, which includes renowned specialists such as Prof. John Patrick Kennedy, Dr Jennifer Cross, Dr John Goldstone, and Satya Bhattacharya, alongside physicians from Bangladesh, is conducting extensive medical evaluations on Khaleda Zia. Since her admission to the London Clinic, various tests have been carried out to address her health complications. Dr Zahid also noted that she had tested positive for Covid-19 in April 2021, which led to multiple hospital admissions in Dhaka, accumulating 422 days of hospital care for various health issues.
Dr Zahid elaborated that the treatment at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital, which involved collaboration with international medical experts from prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins Hospital, was highly regarded by foreign physicians. The medical team in London has made necessary adjustments to Khaleda Zia's treatment regimen based on recent test reports. The involvement of specialist physicians from Johns Hopkins Hospital in London is contemplated if deemed necessary after receiving all test results.
Once discharged from the hospital, Khaleda Zia plans to stay with her eldest son, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, at his residence in London. She was brought to London in early January by a special air ambulance, accompanied by her family, including her son Tarique and daughter-in-law Dr Zubaida Rahman. Her family, including her granddaughters, has been actively involved in her care, providing homemade meals and ensuring her comfort during her hospital stay.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir reported from Dhaka that Khaleda Zia's health is showing signs of improvement, and the detailed medical reports are anticipated by next Friday. The 79-year-old former premier has been dealing with chronic health issues which were exacerbated following her conviction in 2018. However, she was acquitted, allowing her to seek further medical treatment abroad. Her ongoing care in London is being closely monitored by both local and international medical professionals as well as her family and party members.